THE STORY BEHIND STANAGE PLANTATION

On a cold but sunny, winter day, the gritstone of the boulders at Stanage Plantation are in perfect condition – dry, high friction, low crowds, moderate gravity, calls out to the population of Sheffield.

Protected from the violent wind by Stanage Edge, many can be found having a go at a rather blank looking slab or an exposed arete - the inspiration and frustration all roll into one, like with any project. Bouldering outdoors, with its subtle dangers, forces you to trust your spotters and your shoes... You feel confident and balanced, the rubber of your shoes stick to the dry gritstone, you have your eyes on the goal, that top arete of the boulder.

And there it is – one of the best feelings, a moment of happiness, relief, achievement and adventure. Isn’t it what we live for – happy moments?